Les Paul exhibit to open at Waukesha County Museum

The Waukesha County Museum will unveil a permanent Les Paul exhibit Sunday, June 9, revealing the personality, character and creativity of the musician, according to a release.

The exhibit, "Les Paul: The Wizard of Waukesha," will be WCM’s first permanent exhibit, according to the release.

“'Les Paul: The Wizard of Waukesha' goes beyond traditional exhibits by connecting guests of all ages with his life story, including one of the biggest influences on his career -- his hometown,” President and CEO of Waukesha County Museum Kristen Lee Villegas said in the release.

“It’s like nothing else ever created to honor him because it focuses on who Les was, and how he thought, inspiring people to pursue their dreams,” said Villegas.

The 2,000-square-foot exhibit takes visitors on a journey through Paul’s life, featuring chapters presented in the inventor’s own words, according to the release. There are interactive elements throughout, including a dream wall that encourages people to share their dreams with the world, as Paul did.

The exhibit will include one-of-a-kind artifacts and memorabilia, including rare guitars, according to the release. Paul’s personal belongings and original inventions will also be on display.

“At one point, the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., attempted to work with Les Paul to create an exhibit, but Les always wanted his legacy to be preserved and his story told in Waukesha,” said Villegas. “The extraordinary feedback and support from our sponsors helped make that dream a reality.”